Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
Appearance
Nymphaea Leibergii, commonly known as Leiberg’s waterlily, is a perennial aquatic plant that grows in shallow water or mud. It has floating leaves that can grow up to 20 cm in diameter, with a wavy edge and a dark green color. The leaves are connected to long, spongy stems that help the plant float on the water’s surface. The flowers are showy and fragrant, with white or pink petals and yellow stamens. They bloom from June to August and are pollinated by bees, butterflies, and moths.
Care Guide
Nymphaea Leibergii is easy to care for and can be grown in a pond or container. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers still or slow-moving water that is at least 6 inches deep.
- Fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for aquatic plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a heavy clay or loam soil that retains water well. Avoid using potting soil or compost.
- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to partial shade to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Nymphaea Leibergii is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nymphaea Leibergii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to yellow and curl. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet or if the plant is over-fertilized. Remove infected plants and replant in fresh soil.
Habitat
Nymphaea Leibergii is native to North America and can be found in shallow ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams in the western United States and Canada. It prefers calm, clear water and can grow in both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nymphaea Leibergii be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Nymphaea Leibergii can be grown in a container as long as it has access to at least 6 inches of still or slow-moving water and plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Nymphaea Leibergii?
A: Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for aquatic plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Nymphaea Leibergii tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Nymphaea Leibergii is hardy in USDA zones 3-10 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q: How do I control aphids on Nymphaea Leibergii?
A: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids on Nymphaea Leibergii.
Related Plants
- Nymphaea Alba
- Nymphaea Caerulea
- Nymphaea Odorata
- Nymphaea Tetragona
References
- “Nymphaea Leibergii – Leiberg’s waterlily.” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/leibergs-waterlily
- “Nymphaea Leibergii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b858
- “Nymphaea Leibergii: Leiberg’s Waterlily.” Plant Care Today. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/nymphaea-leibergii.html
